Acne when going through hormone therapy
Do you know someone who struggles with acne? Or maybe you are someone, like a lot of transgender people, who struggle with acne when taking hormones. It sucks. Like a lot. But the good news is, you’re not alone and there are plenty of other trans people who are experiencing the same things you may be going through. It can be a long process and a long time coming when dealing with acne, so be patient with your skin.
The most important advice for treating acne is to appreciate and LOVE your skin. Stop trying to fight your own body when it comes to treating acne and start valuing what it does for you every single day. With that said, this is a short guide of things that may help you along your acne journey!
Photo courtesy of Imagen Skin Diagnosis | Skeyndor | Flickr www.flickr.com
Now that you know your skin type, it will be a little easier to decide which products and approaches you should take when it comes to your skin (and acne). Additionally, it is good to know what type of acne you have but this is a bit more difficult and can even take a medical opinion to determine the right type. But whether it is hormonal, cystic, whiteheads, blackheads, or fungal, all of this advice is helpful.
Photo courtesy of www.maxpixel.net
It doesn’t matter what kind of acne you struggle with, how much or how little, your skin will thank you for protecting it! It has nothing to do with your hormones and doesn’t discriminate against the type of acne you are working with. Plenty of science has proven that your skin is not friends with the UVA and UVB rays (including all of the other things the sun does that most of us don’t even realize cause worse acne) emitted by the sun, including but not restricted to the worsening of pigmentation and hyperpigmentation, causing wrinkles, damaging and killing of the skin cells, causing inflammation and even cancers. None of which is healthy or helpful for your acne either.
And while it’s true that some ingredients in sunscreen can cause or worsen acne, the protection of your skin is a lot more helpful than anything else! For example, staying away from ingredients such as Benzophenones, Cinnamates, Octocrylene, Quaternium-15, and Para-aminobenzoic acid- all of which are known as non-comedogenic- can essentially make it impossible for your sunscreen to cause acne. Even better is that most sunscreen products will tell you if they are non-comedogenic and help acne-prone skin! Plus, picking the right type of sunscreen for your skin type helps with a lot more than just reducing your acne. Figuring out whether a chemical or physical sunscreen is better for your skin can be a challenge too but luckily there is also scientific evidence that can help advise your decision. For starters, knowing how these types of sunscreens work is extremely helpful when it comes to choosing what’s best for your skin type.
Chemical sunscreens penetrate into your skin and convert UV rays into heat which is then released naturally by your body. Physical sunscreens on the other hand sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays. It is thought, but not proven, that chemical sunscreens are worse for the skin as they can often irritate and possibly even cause breakouts, for your skin. However, the right type of sunscreen truly depends on your skin type! For those who struggle with acne, physical sunscreens (sometimes referred to as mineral sunscreens) that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active, protecting ingredients have been shown to reduce the appearance of acne.
Ingredients such as niacinamide in sunscreen can help to reduce redness and inflammation while things such as lactic acid and hyaluronic acid keep the skin healthy and in balance by increasing the rate of cell turnover (and clearing away dead skin cells!) and keeping the skin hydrated, respectively. Getting a light, water-based, non-comedogenic, sunscreen is best for acne-prone and oily skin but a moisturizing/sunscreen combo is more helpful for dry skin. For sensitive skin, it is important to look at the ingredients and figure out what your skin is OK with and what will irritate it (including fragrances). But, regardless of your type of skin, you should always be using sunscreen with AT LEAST an SPF of 30 which blocks up to 97% of UVB rays emitted by the sun. If you have more sensitive skin or a fairer complexion, the recommended SPF is 50.
The INKEY list SPF 30 Sunscreen
Committed to creating quality products based on scientific research at an affordable price. This is an excellent place to start if you’re new to daily sun protection.
ZitSticka has a very simple and effective methodology based on science as well. Their formula specifically targets acne-prone skin, plus, they are here to destigmatize acne, not just clear it up!
While it’s not recommended to wear makeup due to how it can clog pores and worsen some acne, SuperGoop’s powdered sunscreen can be a great option if you do as it gently sits on top of whatever you want on your face. It is also a good option for those with oily skin!
Black Girl sunscreen has become popular more recently and for the absolute best reasons! Their story starts with the need for quality sunscreen that caters to women of color and continues to consistently be the best for the environment. The sunscreen itself dries completely without any white cast (the white residue most sunscreens leave behind) and is vegan, cruelty-free, reef-safe, natural, AND recyclable by the company.
Finding the right cleanser is a lot harder than finding the right sunscreen but the same basic principles are there: find something that works with your skin type. Here is a quick breakdown of some key ingredients your cleanser should have if you struggle with acne.
Very common and in a lot of products, it is best for those just starting to try and clear acne as it is less harsh. Recommendations are split by skin type.
Again, the recommendation comes from the Inkey List due to the reasonable price, science, and 2% strength (which is the strongest percent over-the-counter you can buy).
Paula’s Choice has been around for a long time and gives a lot of people great results. This cleanser, based on its weaker 0.5% dosage of Salicylic Acid, is better for people with dry skin as it’s less potent and therefore won’t dry out the skin as much.
With an even weaker strength of Salicylic Acid (0.2%) Caudalie’s Pore Purifying Gel Cleanser is fragrance-free and vegan, making for a good more natural option if you have pretty sensitive skin.
Not all AHA’s are what you typically think of when it comes to the type and form of cleanser. Cleansers can be face washes, face peels, leave-on products, and other things such as face masks. However, AHA’s are most commonly found as a single ingredient face peel due to their harshness.
From The Ordinary, a mainstream brand that can be found at several large retailers, this lactic acid formula can actually be left on the skin and comes in 5% and 10% strength. All of their products are vegan and cruelty-free as well as contain clean ingredients.
Alder New York is a queer and woman-owned brand that provides this really gentle glycolic acid cleanser for everyday use! It’s a great alternative for more sensitive skin as opposed to the AHA face peels.
This item by Volition Beauty contains both AHA’s and BHA’s to help more gently fight acne compared to single ingredient AHAs. They are also queer and woman-led brand that boasts their ‘always clean and cruelty-free' products.
Another one from The Ordinary this face peel is really accessible and affordable. One of its best (or worst) products is its AHA 30% + BHA 2% peel which is an extremely effective peeling solution for the skin. However, because of its strength, a lot of caution needs to be taken when using this product.
A long-standing brand, PanOxyl uses max strength, 10% Benzoyl Peroxide to help fight acne ALL over, not just your face. This facewash is a great option for those with oily and combination skin but if you have sensitive or dry skin, you might want to try their lower strength, 4% formula.
Once again, Paula’s Choice pops up on the list for its less harsh version. This is actually a cleanser treatment that can be left on the face that is truly affordable if you want to try benzoyl peroxide products.
Bliss has championed the skincare routine since 1996 and continues to amaze. This green tea gel mask is incredible for its ingredients and because it's vegan, cruelty-free, and planet friendly. The company is also B Corp certified so you can rest a little easier that both the product and the people producing it are treated amazingly.
This 10% Azelaic Acid serum by Typology is a great leave-on product that is 97% naturally derived. The company is all about quality and transparency, not only for their product but for their workers too as they are also B Corp certified.
This version of a retinol treatment is pricey but worth it if you want to dip your feet into using retinol without the side effects or have sensitive skin. PCA Skin is dedicated to science and your skin, with 30 years of experience and innovation they do their best to make professional treatments accessible and even provide customer service with licensed aestheticians that can help you with your unique skin.
A lot of dermatologists stand by CeraVe products based on the ingredients and easy access they provide. And for the most part, CeraVe does all of the right things with and for their products; they contain great, effective ingredients that have proven results, they are in the vast majority of stores, and the price is among the most affordable products out there. However, it should be noted that their products are not vegan or cruelty-free, which can be a drawback.
Finding a moisturizer that doesn’t make your acne can be a difficult task but is not impossible. The main thing you must know is the ingredients you are looking for in your moisturizer: hyaluronic acid, ceramides, sodium PCA, glycerin, glycerol, and salicylic acid. As long as you stay away from oil-based products which are thick and tend to be heavy on the skin you can easily find a moisturizer that works well for your skin. For those struggling with acne, a water-based moisturizer (if the first ingredient on the list is water, then it is a water-based moisturizer) is recommended by most dermatologists and typically has all the ingredients above that you’re looking for. Here are some favorites!
Again, CeraVe makes the list because of its scientifically researched product. This can be used all over your body and works great, backed by all the great ingredients you need. But for the same reasons mentioned before, CeraVe might not be the brand for you.
A lot of people know the brand Native for their deodorant but they also produce some good skincare products as well, such as this coconut water face moisturizer. It’s vegan, cruelty-free, fragrance-free, paraben free, and made with simple ingredients making it an excellent option for any skin type. Plus they try to be eco-conscious with their packaging and transparent with their environmental impact.
Your skincare routine is honestly best kept simpler if you struggle with acne for several reasons. One is because, when trying to find the right product, it's easier to see the effects of one if you do not have a lot in your routine. Another is that, although layer can be helpful and effective, it’s more often detrimental for those prone to acne or with sensitive skin. Keeping track of ingredients can be hard and it takes a wizard to know what goes best with what and what counter acts which ingredients. This is why it is best to see a licensed aesthetician or dermatologist for any further acne treatment (trust me, they will thank you if you keep a simple, effective routine). Plus, when you do go to a dermatologist for help, it is much easier for them to sort out what might work best if you already have a good routine down and the process tends to go MUCH faster and smoother if you can let them know what does and doesn’t work for your skin type.
Dermabeam LED Light Therapy Mask
Blue Light therapy has been shown to kill acne-causing bacteria and can be a great option if you are sick and tired of over-the-counter topical creams, gels, and serums. This is much recommended for those who have tried a lot of products already and haven’t had quite the results they hoped for. It’s also a way of staying out of a dermatologist’s office or licensed aesthetician’s office a little longer because this product by DermaBeam offers the same medical grade product for at-home use. It’s a comfortable, easy, daily, effective product that is worth the price for sure.
As much as you may think Cinco de Mayo should be the official National Tequila Day, it isn't which is lucky for us tequila lovers. That means you can celebrate extra special on two days of the year–technically more because there is also National Margarita Day!
There are a lot of tequila brands out there with some of the more famous Don Julio, Jose Cuervo, Casamigos, and Casa Noble to name a few. The history of tequila dates all the way back to around 250 A.D. but it wasn't until the 16th century that the Spanish conquistadors introduced the art of distillation. Mexican law dictates that tequila can only be made from the blue agave plant and from specific states of Mexico, similar to Champagne needs to come from Champagne, France.
Don't get tequila confused with its relative, mezcal. They are both made from agave but of different species. The processing of tequila and mezcal differ as well. Tequila is steamed and distilled whereas mezcal is cooked and wood-smoked and then distilled. Even the distillation process is different. Tequila is distilled in copper pots and mezcal is distilled in clay pots.
Take a look at these non-margarita cocktail recipes and give them a try. They're as tasty as they sound (and look).
Photo courtesy of Pink House Alchemy
Pink House Alchemy is an LGBTQ+ owned and operated business located in Arkansas.
Photo courtesy of Villa One
Photo courtesy of Teremana Tequila
The recipe is courtesy of Hacienda Encantada Resort & Residences in Cabo San Lucas and the Museo del Tequila.
National Tequila Day is on July 24th every year. Like clockwork. It's literally 24 hours of non-stop tequila. There are so many things you can do with tequila. Check out these top uses for tequila that DON'T involve drinking!
There aren’t many people who would view the craft beer industry as necessarily queer. For years it has been predominantly a cis-white-male-oriented profession that we’ve largely supported because…well, we didn’t know we had options. And we could all use a nice cold beer from time to time, so we went with what we knew.
But maybe it’s time to look outside what we know about the craft beer industry. Perhaps it’s high time to start focusing on showing extra love to those in our community, supporting us, and sharing our ideals.
Ya know, instead of “Jim from Undenominational Boring Lite Beer Co.” (no offense to the Jim’s out there).
The good news is, that there are WAY more LGBTQ+ breweries and small beer makers than we thought across the country! Which has absolutely been a long time coming but we are so happy to see that progress is always happening. Even if sometimes it doesn’t seem that way.
So, here’s 10 truly stellar craft beer companies all owned, operated, and affirmed by LGBTQ+ people.
Shyla Sheppard (left) and Missy Begay (right)
Photo courtesy of newmexicomagazine.org
Founded in 2016 by Shyla Sheppard and her wife Dr. Missy Begay, these women are putting a stamp on the craft brewing market with some selections that are truly wild. They created Bow & Arrow to put an appreciation and emphasis on their personal origin story and that of the land around them.
“We wanted to explore our connection to this special place. The land, the people. Indigenous ingredients captured our imagination,” Sheppard says.
By using extremely local ingredients in their brews, such as cultivating yeast from a peach tree grown on their property and sprigs of lavender from a local farm, they are creating beers that are completely their own.
Their Savage Times Sour IPA is one of our favorite original creations of theirs, but seeing their creativity at work is really something else.
They’ve also launched the Native Land Beer initiative, providing participating breweries with an original beer recipe to pay homage to the Native land they brew on. Donating to various organizations that contribute to embolden and give back to Native communities.
Photo courtesy of Fullsteam Brewery
Anyone from Durham knows one thing for certain, and that’s how to get down and celebrate. Fullsteam Brewery hosts dozens of different events every month, but also emphasizes making sure everyone is there and having a good time!
They are also an active part in celebrating and supporting the queer community, a huge part of which has been overseen by their Director of Taproom Operations Ari Sanders. Sanders, who identifies as a BIPOC Queer Woman, has promoted inclusivity in their brewing program.
She has also made sure they are selling Pride merch year-round because we all know Pride doesn’t end when June does!
They have also participated in the Queer Beer Fest this past year, where dozens of other breweries owned and supported by the queer community gather to…well, drink beer!
This queer-owned and women-owned brewery is one of the only of its kind in the Bay Area. Local Brewing Co. co-founder, Head Brewmaster (and overall science wiz) Regan Long has been carving out a space for more queer and inclusive brewers in the industry. Luckily, there has been a much broader influx of queer brewers in the industry and people encouraging diversity and inclusion wherever they go, which makes Local’s stance much easier.
“It’s been fantastic to see more visible and accepted diversity in the industry of late,” Long says. “More perspectives and opinions always drive new, innovative ideas and the industry is better for it.”
She and her team have been mixing up some fantastic brews, including their Gay Crush Tropical Blonde. Which, a portion of sales goes to support the SF LGBT Center. And is available always because Pride stops when? Never.
Punchbowl Kettle Sour Beer from Dorchester Brewing Co.
Photo courtesy of Dorchester Brewing Company Instagram
Back in the 1940s, right when Boston’s wealthiest started to up and move out of Dorchester, Boston’s LGBTQ+ residents started to move in and make it home for the community. Over time it has become a welcome safe haven for all kinds of diverse individuals, but with an open queer foundation.
Dorchester Brewing Co., founded by Matt Malloy and his husband, planted its roots right in the middle of some of the most iconic Queer Neighborhoods in the area.
“You don’t just build a brewery to make great beer, but to serve a community and make people happy.” Malloy says.
And that’s exactly what they continue to do.
Photo courtesy of Guardian Brewing Company
If their Rainbow Unicorn logo didn’t give it away immediately, Guardian Brewing Co. is an active supporter of the LGBTQ+ community.
Also being fully female-owned and queer-owned, they’re building a place to celebrate being who you are, with some incredible (vegan-friendly) food and drinks, right next to Lake Michigan.
Owner Kim Collins, having multiple accolades in the brewing community (including a Cicerone certification in 2016), certainly knows her way around crafting excellent brews. She actively advocates for diversity and inclusion in her work and is a huge part of creating a more queer space for others passionate about great beer. And recently released Werk Boots, a Queer Beer celebrating the Michigan queer community by directly acknowledging and supporting the ones in it.
Kelissa Heiber at Goldspot Brewing Co.
Photo courtesy of Goldpsot Brewing Co. Instagram
There are plenty of people who make Goldspot Brewing Co. a proverbial gay Mecca, but Kelissa Hieber might be the most influential. After studying brewing on her own, becoming Head Brewer at Goldspot, buying out the owners, and claiming full ownership of the brewery, Hieber is crushing it.
From promoting Drag Bingo and Brunch events and other community fundraisers, and their newest brew “It’s Brittney, B****”, Goldspot is quickly becoming one of the most noteworthy queer breweries in the industry.
They just want to go that extra mile for you. Ya know?
Bri Burrows from Big Rip Brewing Co.
Photo courtesy of PorchDrinking.com
Co-owner and Head Brewer Bri Burrows has always had a penchant for brewing, going from weekend bartender at Big Rip to her current standing in just under five years. If that wasn’t enough, she’s also the first female head brewer in the Kansas City area!
She continues to work with the Pink Boots Society of Kansas supporting women in brewing AND collaborating with Lily Waite of The Queer Brewing Project, encouraging and supporting queer beer makers in the industry.
She also spearheaded the creation of their “Try and Tear Me Down” Boysenberry IPA, which was donated to the Kansas City Anti-Violence Project.
Burrows is busy! But continues to help make Big Rip Brewing Co. the most inclusive and awesome brewery that it is today.
Photo courtesty of Provincetown Brewing Co.
As queer people, ya just gotta know about Provincetown, the ultimate retreat for LGBTQ+ people. Provincetown Brewing Co. is the place to be and usually involves a drink or two.
As is stated on their website: “Activism is our ethos.” The brewery makes it a point to contribute to and support LGBTQ+ organizations with the sale of all their brews. Each donating to a variety of different charities and organizations to keep supporting the people who do the same to us.
In particular, their #draftivism program donates 15% of all profits to a multitude of organizations. “From LGBTQ+ inclusion to environmental conservation and support of a year-round artists community on the Outer Cape.”
They’re a queer brewery with a mission, and for that, we give the biggest cheers. Probably with a Bearded Mistress IPA in hand.
Lauren Hughes of Necromancer Brewing
Photo courtesy of the Pittsburgh Brewery and Diversity Council
Necromancer Brewing Co. might be one of the coolest concepts for a brewery, they pride themselves on “resurrecting” old styles of beer…. get it?
This beautifully macabre brewery is bringing back some killer brews, courtesy of their Head Brewer Lauren Hughes. Being the second ever female head brewer in Pittsburgh, as well as being a member of the queer community, she has always had her work cut out for her. And, boy, did she come to work.
This beer program has something for everyone, from the Ms. Peacock (with the Wrench) Summer Blonde to their Kill Switch Red IPA, you’ll be dead wrong not to give them a try.
Show up for the Drag Shows, stay for the spooky beer.
As it very clearly states on the Ponysaurus Brewing Co. website, this is “The Beer Beer Would Drink If Beer Could Drink Beer.” 'Nuff Said.
Specializing in both traditional and experimental styles of beer, they really caught our attention when they rode in on that Ponysaurus of theirs to defend the LGBTQ+ community.
After a video of the Lt. Governor of North Carolina made a certain comment, they decided to take a stance in one of the most clever ways possible. Their Don’t Be Mean To People beer donates a portion of every sale to support LGBTQ+ organizations.
“So we know in his heart he doesn't believe other North Carolinians are "filth." We’re so sure of it, we’re helping to fund the good work that could be his greatest act in public office.”
So cheers to education, stopping bigotry in its tracks, and #fundthefabulous.
Best Gay Massages in Byron Bay
There's no shortage of massage therapists in Byron Bay that offers various types of services. If you're not familiar with Byron Bay, it is known as the rainbow region because of its inclusivity and history of being a mecca for LGBTQ+ visitors, particularly gay men.
The healing aspect of sensual massages, tantric massages, or bodywork can help individuals deal with reduced stress, anxiety, and depression, often improving sleep quality. Additional benefits are the elimination of sexual, emotional, mental, and physical blockage. Here are 3 massage practitioners that cater to men as well as an instructor that offers various types of classes and workshops.
Lets Be Well Counseling, Group Process, Bodywork
Photo couresty of Lets Be Well
Lets Be Well offers 3 types of services:
Therapy and counseling sessions to learn how to navigate life in a more harmonious way.
Therapy that is designed to focus and center on your awareness, freedom, and self-direction.
Offering sessions of Kahuna massage or Zen Thai Shiatsu
Photo courtesy of The Healing Touch
The Healing Touch offers the following experiences:
The Sensual Experience treatments offer varying degrees of bodywork from full body contact to mind and body to deep tissue. There are also introductory options as well as services for the more experienced.
Similar to the sensual sessions, the traditional experiences offer sessions focused on relaxation, deep tissue, Swedish massage, Lomi Lomi massage, Reflexology, and Body Realignment.
Sessions are designed to explore connections with a man, learn to talk, discover boundaries, and reach a higher state of understanding.
Massage sessions that focus on couples whether it is one at a time, side by side, or a design your own couples experience.
Photo courtesy of Frank Massage
A massage therapy experience that blends, folds, and connects in a rhythmic motion. Learning to connect through breathing, the flow of the body and mind, and offering a new experience and freedom of fluidity and sensuality.
Photo courtesy of Kahuna Man Bodywork
Kahuna Man Bodywork is where you learn the art of bodywork and massage. Classes are online or in person.
This is a workshop-style course where you will learn step-by-step how to perfect your form.
Stream bodywork technique content to learn the process of massage, health, fitness, and wellbeing.
Beginner's guide to bodywork in a workshop setting. This workshop is all video content with over two hours of bodywork content and various techniques.
Use massage oil and learn the technique of floor massage without the need for a massage table. This course is perfect for couples to learn new techniques and make a greater connection.
This course is all about floor techniques for massage and stretch routines. The step-by-step instructions cover over 40 different massage and stretching techniques.
This 50-minute video is perfect for those starting out in bodywork. Watch as the instructor walks a couple through a massage session.